While it’s no secret that Council help members make lasting connections and feel part of the community, your organization can likely do even more to help Council member wellness mentally, physically and emotionally.

Read on for specific events and ideas your organization can implement to help Council members’ mental, physical and emotional health.

Council Member Wellness — Mental and Emotional Support

Since the COVID-19 pandemic, rates of anxiety and depression among older adults have increased significantly. These increases are exacerbated due to the lack of Medicare providers and needed services.

While older Americans have traditionally had lower rates of depression and anxiety than younger citizens, there are many events that can impact the mental and emotional well-being of your members, including:

• Healthcare costs
• Widowhood
• Chronic illnesses and diagnoses
• Isolation
• Poor sleep

To help your members’ mental and emotional health, consider:

• Hosting informational sessions with mental health professionals about the symptoms of depression and other mental illnesses.
• Sharing mental health resources via email, newsletters and more.
• Connecting Veterans with VA mental health services.
• Checking in with members frequently.
• Sharing physical exercise classes.
• Scheduling regular activities for socialization, such as guest speakers, game nights, coffee chats and more.

Council Member Wellness — Physical Support

In addition to mental and emotional health, seniors may need support for their physical health. According to the CDC, older adults need:

• At least 150 minutes per week of moderate-intensity activity.
• At least 2 days of activities that strengthen muscles each week.
• Regular activities to improve balance.

This physical activity can help members maintain the ability to live independently, reduce blood pressure in some people with hypertension, control joint swelling, maintain healthy bones, joints and muscles and reduce the risk of falling and fracturing bones.

Help improve the physical health and safety of your members by:

• Offering exercise classes or sharing schedules of a local community center.
• Encouraging members to meet up for group walks.
• Inviting local health professionals to present on the importance of exercising and healthy eating.

Support from Lockton Affinity

Lockton Affinity is here to help support your members and your organization. Explore additional resources here or contact our dedicated team to learn how you can better protect your organization with insurance from Lockton Affinity.